Walker Kessler unhappy with Jazz’s handling of free agency

The Jazz and center Walker Kessler have long seemed like a natural fit. Lately, though, there may be some tension.

Per Sam Amick of The Athletic, Kessler has become increasingly frustrated with Utah’s handling of his contract situation as he approaches restricted free agency.

Amick reported that Kessler is unhappy with the early stages of negotiations, and the unease dates back to extension talks last offseason.

The former first-round pick is eligible to become a restricted free agent this summer if the Jazz extend a qualifying offer. That would give Utah the right to match any offer sheet he signs elsewhere.

According to Amick, Kessler believes the Jazz have used that leverage to suppress his market value.

League sources also told The Athletic that Kessler has previously envisioned himself as a long-term piece in Utah, making the recent developments all the more surprising.

For their part, the Jazz still appear interested in keeping him. The question may be at what price.

Even after appearing in just five games last season before suffering a shoulder injury that required surgery, Kessler remains highly regarded around the league. Multiple teams have expressed interest in him in the past, including the Lakers, Hawks, Raptors, Wizards and Knicks, according to Amick.

In other words, there likely won’t be a shortage of suitors if Kessler eventually reaches the open market.

That seems like a reach at this point. These things tend to work themselves out. But at the moment, what once looked like a straightforward partnership may have gotten a little more complicated.

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